Glocks are fair priced, they will always shoot and you can "on the cheap" do what ever you want to them.

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Swami

February 12, 2012, 01:22 AM

1. 1911 G.I.
2. 1911 Commander
3. 1911 Officer's

:D

iLikeOldgunsIlikeNewGuns

February 12, 2012, 01:36 AM

At the moment, they'd be:

1911 - full size, and in .45acp of course (and my .22 conversion kit if that can be 'brought along' and still be only 1 gun out of the 3)

S&W 629 .44 mag (also shoots .44 special of course)

and a cap and ball gun, probably 1858 or 1851

why? They are all a joy to shoot, and have excellent energy transfer, also not as hard on the ears as a .357 mag, (which I do enjoy shooting though), they all fit my hand great, and operate like clockwork. Also, they are all heavier guns, which make recoil enjoyable not a pain. They're also all very good lookin' :D

1. S&W M&P 9, TS
In my mind, 9mm is adequate for self defense. The round is also very cheap and easy to find. The M&P platform is my favorite pistol platform. I've rented most of the autoloaders on the market and decided that I preferred the M&Ps over the other offerings. Just my opinion, of course.

I think that these pistols are extremely reliable, durable, and accurate platform. They are built with through hardened stainless steel parts. Many of these parts are then subjected to a melonite finishing process to further improve the durability of the steel components. The gun has a stainless steel chasis that supports the polymer frame. I prefer the medium palm swells. They fit me and wife extremely well. The pistols also have a low bore axis and a beaver tail to help reduce muzzle flip. I find these guns to control recoil extremely well. I can shoot them well, at least at the range. M&Ps also have excellent stock sights. The stock triggers are adequate, but can be improved with aftermarket triggers. I spent several years shooting nothing but double action, centerfire revolvers, so I don't find the triggers to be too bad. I prefer to keep my pistols stock. While Glocks probably still have the reputation of being the best polymer handguns, I think that the M&Ps are better guns. They are probably slightly less reliable. I'd give the M&Ps a slight edge in the durability department due to the fully supported chamber and stainless chasis. Sure, there are reports of Glocks that have 100,000s of rounds through them. They last and last and last. I personally won't ever shoot 100,000s of rounds through one gun. I would rather have a gun that has a supported chamber, a stainless chasis, and all stainless internal components. They are also gaining a lot of ground in the police market. To me, these are the best pistols available today.

2. S&W M&P 45, TS
Again, I stuck with the M&P platform. The .45 acp round is one of the better handgun rounds for defense. The 255 grain semiwad cutter rounds from Buffalo Bore and Corbon are also pretty darn potent for woods carry. These rounds can travel anywhere from 825 fps to 925 fps out of this barrel length. A 255 grain, hardcast, semiwadcutter round moving at 925 fps is basically a moderate .45 colt round. According to Buffalo Bore's website the standard pressure rounds, that move at 825 fps can penetrate about 27" in flesh and bone. To me that is adquate to get the job done. If you opt with the hotter round, the round would be a little more potent.

Personally, I'd be comfortable with these "hot" .45 acp rounds to defend myself against anything I might run into while camping or hiking in the woods of the Midwest. I'd rather have 11 rounds of these loads, with the potential for a quick reload, than six rounds of .357 magnum or .44 magnum for Black Bear defense. One thing that is important to keep in mind is that these loads don't feed very well in certian guns. For example, as of a few years ago, the XD series was known to have problems cycling semi wadcutters. There were a lot of complaints about this on XD talk. If you decide that you want a .45 acp for a woods defense gun in your area, make sure that it is loaded with proper rounds, and that your gun can actually cycle these rounds properly.

If I lived in Grizzly territory, I might consider either getting the M&P converted to either .45 super or .460 Rowland. While I might consider the conversion, I'd probably opt for a Ruger Redhawk in .44 magnum or .45 colt. I think that it is better to buy guns that were designed to handle really hot rounds instead of trying to beef a less robust gun up. I might even consider using a S&W 625 and loading it up with either .45 super or .460 Rowland. I'm confident that a 625 could handle the occasional .45 super round.

If I move to an area where I might realistically run into a huge grizzly, I'd probably switch to one of these revolvers, if I had to keep my gun collection at three handguns. I'd probably go with the .44 magnum Redhawk. If you don't live in an area with huge bears, or do a lot of handgun hunting, I think that a big bore revolvers are a waste of time and money. They are very expensive guns and are very expensive to feed. Besides, there are other options that are better for defense. To me, it makes no sense owning a gun that you will probably never need (when faced with either money or spousal constraints that limit you to three guns). Get the guns that make sense for you. Don't think of weird scenarios and try to prepare for threats that you will never realistically face.

3. Ruger SP101, 4.2", Stainless, .22 lr
I love revolvers, period. I don't like them for home defense because of the capacity limitations. As a trail gun, this gun is very attractive to me. It is accurate, reliable and would probably last several lifetimes. This same gun design can be used to shoot heavy .357 magnum rounds. It would handle 100s of thousands of .22 lr without breaking a sweat. To me, this is the perfect fun/trail/survival handgun.

I make very good money, but I have put a limit on the handguns to three. My top three choices that I listed will be my handgun collection within a few months. I plan to sell my GP100 and to get the SP101 in .22lr.

I love the GP100, but owning more than three handguns would ruffle my wife's feathers too much. If I have to ruffle her feathers with more guns, I'd rather get a few long guns instead of having more handguns. I want a Winchester SXP black shadow shotgun, a stainless/synthetic 77/22 in .22 lr, and either a RRA A4 Varmit or a Mini-14 in stainless/synthetic.

Those three handguns and three long guns would fill all of my perceived wants and "needs".

1) Colt M1911 .45ACP with .22LR conversion unit.
2) Browning Hi-Power
3) S&W Model 686
Excellent point on the 1911. I now want to amend my number one choice to include but not limited to; 9mm, .22, .38 Super, 9X23, .455, 10mm...

Certaindeaf

February 12, 2012, 01:56 PM

Excellent point on the 1911. I now want to amend my number one choice to include but not limited to; 9mm, .22, .38 Super, 9X23, .455, 10mm...
How about a TC handrifle with every caliber known to man to count as one! That'd do it?

3. .45 Colt -- for when you want a really big gun for deer or similar game. I have a Colt New Service with 7/12" barrel and a Ruger Blackhawk with 5 1/2" barrel.

bearman49709

February 12, 2012, 03:25 PM

S&w 617
s&w 66
s&w 629

Telekinesis

February 12, 2012, 03:36 PM

Glock 17 for when I dont have to be discreet about carry.
Sig 228 for when I need to conceal.
Bersa Thunder .380 for when I "can't" have a gun.

Have the first two and had the third, sold it, and am picking up another one soon. I'd already have it if my local gun store would quit screwing around and let me talk to a sales guy. Sometimes I feel like I'm in a bar where you have to flash a wad of cash at the guy just to get him to give you the time of day :banghead:

RetDep310

February 12, 2012, 03:44 PM

Glock 19...if you have to ask, you don't understand

S&W M&P340...just love those J-frames, great to carry when the 19 is too big

i would add the S&W 686 in place of the 1911 or BHP but was asked to name just 3 pistols

Cycletroll

February 12, 2012, 07:59 PM

Glock 19 (9mm)

S&W 4" 63 (.22LR)

S&W 629 4" Mtn. gun (.44 Mag)

These three cover anything and everything I could want in a handgun.

-CCW
-Plinking/small game hunting
-Kill/hunt anything that walks on earth.

AntlerInc

February 12, 2012, 09:35 PM

1911 Commander Sized (Ed Brown) - EDC
380 (P238) - for the rare times when the 1911 is not discrete enough
22/45 - plinkling/practice/small game

It is really hard to stop at three. I'd be more comfortable if i could include an Alaskan .44 :D

Lonerider357

February 13, 2012, 01:20 AM

1911 45acp
Sig P226 9mm
Ruger Blackhawk 357

el Godfather

February 13, 2012, 01:29 AM

Glock 18C: There is nothing like it. Those who say you cant hit anything with it have probably not fired it; and you dont have to fire on full auto all the time. Use it as carry on semi, and in need you have a very compact replacement for SMG.

Beretta 92 Combo: Rare item, accurate and reliable. Again with shorter barrel in the package you can carry it or put on the long with compensator for competition.

I could easily sub any of the "german police trial" pistols for the CC 9mm (P5/P6/P7) or maybe a compact single stack Beretta Inox... only medium sized hands here folks. Getting a conversion kit may be a problem for those.

Likewise a 19/66/586 (or maybe even a GP100) would be ok for the second. Could go down to a 3" on a K frame or up to a 5" on an L.

I'd be fine w/ a .44 Magnum on the last as well and could possibly be talked into a DA (29/629/Redhawk), but first choice was for simplicity.

memphisjim

February 13, 2012, 04:37 AM

1) glock 19
2) hk45
3 ruger mark3

doc2rn

February 13, 2012, 06:41 AM

FNP-9
S&W mod 10 3"
Colt Python
What can I say I am a wheelgun guy but the FNP is the only semi auto centerfire reliable enough to keep its place in the safe, sits right next to the Ruger Standard.

I'm familiar with the 1911 platform and as far as I'm concerned, Wilson Combat puts together the best 1911 that's balanced for tight fit, accuracy, and flat out reliability with what is among the best after sales service that I've come across. My Springfield TRP gives my Wilson a run for the money in a lot of ways though, including after sales service. I went with the Sig Sauer P239 DAK because i really love the Sig Sauer P series because they're easy to use, they're accurate, and they just work (I just acquired a new P226R over the weekend and intend to start putting it through its paces this week).

I'm sure that the above identified three pistols would be more than adequate in the event that I could only have three handguns, but since I'm not limited to three, I'll happily continue hoarding various firearms.

mbopp

February 13, 2012, 09:42 AM

1) 1911

2) S&W K-frame 357 (M-19 or -66)

3) Ruger MKII .22

JohnGault

February 13, 2012, 09:53 AM

Ruger Redhawk 44Mag
Beretta 92FS 9MM
FN Five Seven

huntsman

February 13, 2012, 10:06 AM

pocket gun
sidearm
plinker

Elkins45

February 13, 2012, 10:50 AM

Kahr P9
S&W 442
Glock 20, but I would be happy to substitute a S&W 1086, 1006 or 1076 for the third spot.

Sure there's others i'd LIKE, but my bases are fairly well covered by this trio for now.

allaroundhunter

February 13, 2012, 01:45 PM

Glock 18C: There is nothing like it. Those who say you cant hit anything with it have probably not fired it; and you dont have to fire on full auto all the time. Use it as carry on semi, and in need you have a very compact replacement for SMG.

.....Except I'm pretty sure they are illegal for civilians to own....I don't think that there are any legally transferable Glock 18's in the US

1) Colt "Python" reason is self explanitory. (Plus .38 Spl. is cheap to shoot.)
2) Colt 1873 SAA. I am a history buff.
3) Sig Sauer P226 "NAVY" Because I love it and .9x19mm is also cheap to shoot.
I could keep going but I only get three.

cougar1717

February 17, 2012, 02:25 PM

S&W 629 - for hunting, of course
22LR revolver - take your pick - Colt, S&W, Ruger, whatever - for something that will feed any kind of 22LR ammo without issue
Sig 226 - because having three revolvers takes too long to clean!

Then I would get a .22 conversion for the 1911, and a 9mm and .357 conversion for the xdm. That's not cheating, is it?

thecarfarmer

February 17, 2012, 09:28 PM

.22 plinker
large caliber sidearm
CCW piece

I've got a '57 Ruger Std. that I couldn't bear to trade for any other .22; that one's settled.

I've got a G21; bulky, but a good, affordable .45 that holds 13+1. If I need more than that, I might need a rifle...

I'm currently thinking about what to get for a CCW piece (my FEG in 9X18 is short on power, short on ammo capacity, and could be slightly smaller). Since my other 'social use' pistol is a Glock, I'm thinking of a G36 or G30.

-Bill

BK

February 17, 2012, 09:57 PM

P32 gray frame
P32 black frame
P32 green frame

But that's just a parody of the OP.

I'd actually want a .22lr, a semi auto like 9mm or 45 ACP, and then a revolver in 38 and or 357.

Justin Holder

February 17, 2012, 10:01 PM

#1 Smith & Wesson 651 .22 Magnum - Small game

http://i49.tinypic.com/10y1fn4.jpg

#2 Smith & Wesson 657 Mountain Gun .41 Magnum - Big Game

http://dl.dropbox.com/u/50881624/Mtn%20Gun.JPG

#3 Kimber Stainless Target II 10mm Auto - Everything else

http://cdn.armslist.com/images/posts/634480204814084849zvtv2kba.jpg

I wish these were mine!

whalerman

February 17, 2012, 10:13 PM

Ruger Security Six .357
High Standard .22
Freedom Arms 44mag

Autolycus

February 17, 2012, 10:26 PM

I would say the following:

Glock 17 for when I can carry it openly or in a SHTF situation.

Glock 19 for an everyday carry pistol.

Glock 26 for more discrete situations.

candyteggy

February 18, 2012, 12:08 AM

Glock 19 for every day carry
USP Tactical .45 for your suppressor
FN57 for the range

BCRider

February 18, 2012, 01:56 AM

I thought about my collection which spans everything from .22LR to .44Mag and semi autos to black powder C&B guns.

Now if you asked about 3 semis, 3 DA revolvers. 3 SA revolvers and 3 black powder guns for an overall total of 12 guns as a minimal collection then I may be able to get on board with this rather unfathomable concept.....:D

David E

February 18, 2012, 02:45 AM

It all depends on the why, as that would impact the choices.

House is burning down, which 3 do I save?

TEOTWAWKI?

New government restriction?

Just getting started, what 3 should be first?-

Jim NE

February 18, 2012, 10:19 AM

-.22 plinker (mine's a 22a)

- a concealable .38. (mine are a Rossi .38, or if I want an extra shot, 2" Military and Police)

-A powerful gun. Since I can only have three guns, it makes sense to have one that has some ammo redundancy with one of the other guns, so a .357 would do. On the other hand, if you have a concealable .357, then I guess you don't need a concealable .38 - that would make the third gun something like a .45 or .44 caliber (which I don't have.)

Haywireranch

February 18, 2012, 11:22 AM

It would be the three I own now.
Glock 19
Springfield 9mm emp
Sig p238
GOD BLESS AMERICA

TimboKhan

February 18, 2012, 11:29 AM

I haven't done one of these in a while, so why not?

1. Glock 19 - I just bought one, and I really like it. Not my first Glock, but my favorite.

2. Ruger MkII - Who doesn't want a .22 pistol?

3. Ruger GP100 - Good defense, hunting, and general purpose revolver.

If you bumped it up to four, I would pick a .45 auto, probably but not necessarily a 1911.

David E

February 18, 2012, 06:31 PM

As an extension of the question....if you can only have 3......do you already own them? If these are your "best picks," you should already have them. If not, why not? (especially if you currently own more than 3)

As an extension of the question....if you can only have 3......do you already own them? If these are your "best picks," you should already have them. If not, why not? (especially if you currently own more than 3)

Excellent point. One thing I noticed on this thread is that many people pick 3 pistols for the same use -- usually self-defense. It makes you wonder why?

It seems more logical to pick a plinker/practice/small game pistol (mine is a Colt Woodsman), a self-defense/carry gun (mine is an M1911) and a big bore hunting gun (mine is a Ruger Blackhawk in .45 Colt.)

azgun

February 18, 2012, 06:40 PM

Glock 21 sf
Colt anaconda 44 mag
and a t/c encore in 378 GNR.

JFrame

February 18, 2012, 07:33 PM

This is a toughie -- and I could come up with any number of mixes that I would find personally satisfying, but for now, I'll say:

2) GLOCK 35 with top ends or barrels to create a: 17, 22, 31, 34, 37 and a .22 conversion.

3) Smith and Wesson Model 29 w/ 6" barrel.

3 guns, 13 different calibers.

larry syverson

February 19, 2012, 08:26 PM

I'd pick a Ruger GP-100 in .357 caliber and learn how to shoot it well. Doubt you'd need anything else. But in the spirit of the question...

My CZ-52 is about as nasty a handgun as you can find. Its scary. Anyone that owns one, knows what I mean. It will punch holes thru 1/2" steel plate at 30 yds like its not even there. When I have someone shoot it, then ask them later if they'd like to shoot it again, they usually decline.

My .40 cal Beretta Centurion is nice too but I'd still prefer my Ruger revolver when the chips are down.

Hmmm, I only own a Glock 21 and a S&W Model 10 right now. For a third I'd consider going back with a Glock 19, they are just all-around nice handguns. But I've also been eye-balling a Browning Hi-Power and a Sig P220.

I like keeping my calibers to a minimum, but if I HAD to purchase a third handgun it'd probably be the Glock 19, I just miss it's "carry-ability".

easyg

February 20, 2012, 03:04 PM

If you could own only 3 pistols what would they be and why.
Glock 26 because it is just about the perfect concealed carry pistol.
Good capacity (10+1), good enough self defense caliber (9mm+P), very reliable and very rugged.

http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n165/allenXdog/HPIM7247.jpg

Ruger GP100 because I love the .357 magnum caliber from a 4" revolver.
It can be used for self defense or hunting or target shooting.
You can shoot powder-puff .38 special loads, or fire-breathing-dragon .357 magnum loads.
It's just a great caliber and a great revolver.

http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n165/allenXdog/HPIM7181.jpg

S&W M&P45c because it's a .45 caliber pistol that offers decent capacity (8+1) yet it is still light enough and compact enough to carry concealed.
And who doesn't like the .45ACP caliber? :)

Glock 27 - for carry in city
Ruger .357 - for carry in woods
Colt 1911- it's a 1911

Zambowhite

February 28, 2012, 11:22 AM

Commander 1911 with a 22 conversion kit
Glock 19 with a 22 conversion kit
Sig Sauer P226 with a ... You know....

MrDig

February 28, 2012, 11:26 AM

Browning Hi-Power
Ruger GP100 6in
Springfield 1911A1

Lee D

February 28, 2012, 11:26 AM

Ruger MkII Target model...it will put food on the table if needed
Ruger SBH 7 1/2" .....it will also put alotta food on the table
Beretta 92....it goes bang every time and is more accurate than my Glocks

mje

February 28, 2012, 11:49 AM

1 my Blackhawk, which is accurate, indestructible, and can digest an amazing variety of different ammunition, from .38 target wadcutters to heavy magnums.

Hello friends and neighbors // I can barely imagine being down to three handguns, so I'll cheat just a little.;)
From those I own.

1) Dan Wesson Pistol Pack, 15-2 , .357/.38 ,6 shot, 2 1/2",4",6",8" and 15"barrels, multiple grips for CCW,Target and Hunting.
Hard to get a more versatile set up. You could even make a shoulder stock for use with the 15" barrel.

2) S&W, 617, .22 , 10 shot, 6" barrel - Great to have a cheap way to practice, hunt and teach.

3) This is the tough one.
My first handgun ,a Stoger American Eagle Luger, .22, 4", 11 +1. OR
My most used and trusted, a S&W, 586, .357/.38, 6", 6 shot OR ...

It took years to obtain so I choose the 1908, Colt, SAA "Bisley Model" ,.45lc, 4 3/4", 6 shot- Numbers match, lock up is tight and still sees the occasional range trip.

I should note that this list is subject to change at any time.:evil:

flaman

March 4, 2012, 11:02 AM

Glock 17
Colt 70 series
Smith & Wesson Jframe

GI_Jared

March 4, 2012, 11:05 AM

Glock 21 - Next to the bed
Glock 26 - CCW in summer
Glock 23 - CCW the rest of the year

taraquian

March 4, 2012, 11:12 AM

Hmmm, I'll go with three that i have

Bersa .380, because i cant afford a real Walther and this thing has never jammed...i mean NEVER.
S&W .38, becauseeveryone needs a revolver. I won this one, if Ihad bought it it would be a .357mag.
Ruger SR1911, ok, so I dont havethis one yet...but I'm on the list and tired of waiting.

LawScholar

March 4, 2012, 11:27 AM

1.) Beretta 92A1
2.) Ruger LCP (silly, I know, but I love that I can carry it anywhere)
3.) Ruger GP-100 .357

2. SIG P228, general purpose, can be concealed and for its high capacity 15 round mags.

3. SIG P226R tricked out with light on rail and mini red dot sight. For high volume of fire with increased accuracy. Night time or stand off engagement. (We are talking hypothetically, right?...real use: the range :) ).

Pukindog12

March 16, 2012, 07:14 PM

S&W 686 6" - for hunting and hiking out in the bush and versatility of .38.

Stoeger Cougar 8000 F - general all purpose high cap metal 9mm.

Bersa Thunder 9UC Pro/Kahr CW9 - tough one here but whichever it is it would be for carry.

I just recently acquired a Walther P99 AS so it is new to me. After I get more time on it it might supplant one of the bottom two.

RickMD

March 16, 2012, 09:16 PM

Colt Match Target .22
Walther PPK .380
Colt Python .357 - 4"

Jaymo

March 16, 2012, 11:30 PM

Colt Python 6"
Colt Commander
Colt Woodsman

Hunting, plinking, or SD/HD, I'd be covered.

Manny

March 16, 2012, 11:57 PM

The first two I have no question on:
-Ruger LCR w/ Crimson Trace grip in either .38 or .357
-Glock 17L

It's the third that gives me pause, .22lr LCR, .22lr Ruger Charger w/EOtech, .454 Revolver? Not knowing much, it's a guessing game as to what would be best. For now I'd chose the Charger/EOtech combo.

Jaymo

March 17, 2012, 12:42 AM

Manny, I assume it depends on your intended usage. The Charger looks like a fun piece.

I could also be happy with
GP100 4"
Redhawk 7.5"
Mark 2

same purposes, different remote controlled drills. (Sorry, Mas, I think I ripped you off with that one.)

.357 Revolver
.45 Semiautomatic
T/C Contender or Encore with one of every barrel ever made.

mongo4567

March 17, 2012, 02:39 PM

Keltec P3AT
Glock 17
Kimber .45/.22 conversion

Poohgyrr

March 18, 2012, 03:54 PM

For right now, and subject to change:

1. 2" 640-1 because it is an always gun in 357/38;
2. 3 1/2" to 4" M27/627 - the eight shooter S&W in 357/38 and a great all around piece;
3. A G35 with barrels for 357Sig and 9X19: three good calibers and in 357Sig it has laser accuracy and the power of the 125gr 357Magnum. And these are ridiculously easy to maintain.

Revolvers are self contained (no mags to loose), and flexible in ammo.

cz-82, cz-P07 Duty in 9mm, and cz-75 b. I have a thing for them Czech pistols. Last two are on my wish list hopefully I'll have enough to purchase them after my 13 weeks on Parris island.

Doc3402

March 19, 2012, 03:31 PM

Smith Mod 19 or 66 in a nice 4" barrel for that gotta hit it now moment.
Sig 1911 because it's slightly easier to conceal than the Smith.
Sig P238 because with some clothing a .380 on the hip beats a .45 in the safe.

sixgunner455

March 19, 2012, 08:07 PM

I live in 'merica, in the United States of Freedom, dangnabit, and ah kin own as many guns as ah kin convince mah wife ah need.

No freaky arbitrary number limits, no sir, not for me.

I "need" one pistol - a CCW that can go anywhere. I have a number of others because, well, I want them, and I think that's a good enough reason.

The first is for target/varmint hunting/etc. The second is a fantastic carry piece and good for combat-type situations. The third is big game hunting/combat/competition/occasional carry.

On a different day, I might replace the Kel-Tec with a pocket .380 like Kahr, LCP, or BG380 for everyday/everywhere carry.

JFrame

March 19, 2012, 08:30 PM

The folks that have posted the T/C Contender as one of their choices have made me reconsider.

I picked the S&W 63 kit gun as one of my choices because I wanted a .22 LR, and initially wanted it to be a repeater.

Now, for my third gun, I will take the T/C Contender with a .22 LR match barrel, in either 10" or 12" configuration. That gives me the option of easily adding quite a few hefty handgun (and some rifle) calibers...

My other two guns will still be a J-frame .38/.357 snub and a K-frame .38/.357 with 3" barrel...

1) S&W 686. It can be used as a defensive weapon as well as to hunt medium game with.

2) Beretta PX4. Probably pick the compact as it still maintains a decent capacity and carry ability.

3) Ruger Mark III. While it does give me a headache trying to disassemble and reassemble, it's cheap as hell to shoot and could also be used as a small game hunting weapon. And it's just flat out fun as hell to shoot.

Infidel4life11

March 21, 2012, 09:48 AM

Freedom, How do you like that Kel-Tec?

The_Armed_Therapist

March 21, 2012, 05:11 PM

Actually, I don't own that Kel-Tec. :( It'll be a while before I get around to getting one because there are other projects I feel are more important (rifles). Someday! I find it ugly as heck, but I think I would find it to be the most fun target/varmint handgun on the market. LOL

hariph creek

March 21, 2012, 07:57 PM

My minimum essential number is 3. These are what I have and the roles they fill:

I'll play. To keep things simple I will stick to one cartridge, the 45 acp. As for pistols, they are listed below.

Sig 220 - I just love the way it feels in my hand.
Glock 30 - good carry gun. Based on ammo capacity and weight.
Glock 21 - good carry gun. Can use these mags in my Glock 31. I'm a big believer in at least two guns when u carry.

Glock 19 Good carry gun, I like the way it shoots, ammunition is plentiful.
1911 A1 Good stopping power, I like it better than the Glock but too heavy for daily carry.
High Standard FK 101 Field King Because I have one and like the way it shoots. 6 inch ported barrel and is a good small game gun.

Prosser

April 10, 2012, 05:20 PM

"Pick only 3 pistols
If you could own only 3 pistols what would they be and why.

1. Glock 26- fits all my carry need and will take 26,17 and 19 mags

2. Glock 19c- It does everything I want it to

3. Glock 34- Just cause

Glocks are fair priced, they will always shoot and you can "on the cheap" do what ever you want to them."

Guess you weren't around when Gaston G. was buying his way into LEO's by offering his guns for near cost, which was around 150.00.

Isn't the 19c and 34 redundant? I can see the 26 and 34, but not the 19c.

And I'd have to have a custom Jack Huntington FA 83
either in .475 Linebaugh or .500JRH.
http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f99/Socrates28/FA83500JRH852010/girls8510copy.jpg
On the otherhand, a custom Ruger in .500 Maximum might be in there, just because it shoots both .500 Max, and .500 Linebaugh, and .510 GNR.
Also custom by JRH Custom Gunmsmithing.
http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f99/Socrates28/RUGER%20510%20Max/500maxright.jpg
Or maybe this .41
http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f99/Socrates28/41%20magnum%20JRH%20custom/400041right.jpg

And then you need a .22 LR
Would have to be a Colt Trooper:
http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f99/Socrates28/seville%207%202006/Seville8copy-1.jpg
Dont forget the .357 Snub, and everyone needs a .45 Colt.

kmrcstintn

April 10, 2012, 07:41 PM

I currently own them & a few more, but if I had to chop the collection:

Glock 19 - easy to shoot and take care of...easy to conceal...awesome track record
of performance and reliability. Easy-to-do-mods.
S&W Chief's Special - when concealment is of utmost importance, as well as "go bang"
all the time.
Ruger Super Blackhawk - boat anchor tough, shoots pussy cat up to MAX with no hiccups.
All-around, my favorite "do everything" handgun...plinking to hunting.

1. A good full size 1911 for defensive purposes, long proven design that parts will surely be available for for a long time

2. A bull barrel Ruger mkII for small game, target shooting

3. S&W model 460V. Should be able to take any game animal in North America. Could also be used for defense against dangerous game, if its still alive after 5 shots from that gun then I don't have any business hunting it and it deserves to eat me. Plus I could load it with .45 long colt for open carry.

Door Gunner

September 28, 2012, 11:14 AM

Interesting thread. Three pistols. By definition a pistol differs from a revolver; two different critters.

Since I’m a retired GI from the Vietnam Era my 1st choice is the 1911 .45-cal. I was lucky enough to serve with a National Match Pistol Champion some many decades ago. He mentored me for a couple of years on pistol-craft. Long story short; I always fired Expert with a handgun because of my good fortune to know this man! I also carried one in Vietnam and know firsthand what it is capable of doing with simple ball ammo.

9mm pistols are another great contender. Glock has fairly well mastered the 9mm pistol. Affordable, reliable. However, since I can only pick one… Glock Model 19, 4-in barrel. Easy to conceal and potent. One reason I like 9mm is because it is the pistol cartridge selected by NATO. If the fecal matter hits the fan finding ammo can become nearly impossible. Because billions of rounds exist among my pals in the military it is much more likely to procure this ammo.

I have many other candidates, but I will stop at two. People own and fire handguns for a variety of reasons. My reason is personal self defense. I practice with that in mind, rather than as a hobby or hunting. When you focus on self defense in the world in which we find ourselves now-a-days you simple must consider availability of the ammo.

If we have an economic collapse, martial law, or any major natural disaster of monumental scale you must realize that Wal-Mart and other commercial stores will be ransacked within days, maybe hours. No one will go to work either because the money you are paid is worthless, or the situation, security-wise, prohibits routine travel. When the “legal” procurement of ammo dries up your only likely place will be friends and sympathizers in the military or law enforcement. That means 9mm.

Infidel4life11

September 28, 2012, 08:48 PM

When I started this thread I believe I said Glock 17,19,34. Which I still stand by but my S&W M&P is pretty awesome. I would also say M&P 9c, 9 and glock 19.

gamboolman

September 29, 2012, 11:21 AM

G-26
g-19
g-30 sf

C0untZer0

September 29, 2012, 11:33 AM

1) HK P7M8 for general purpose

2) Buck Mark Contour 7.25 URX - very accurate, long line of sight and a 7¼" barrel make it a versatile firearm.

3) EAA Witness Hunter 10mm - a big gun with a 6" barrel, can take out big predators and take down big game the other two calibers can't.

I gave careful consideration to the first five or six guns I bought. I wanted to buy to fill a need at a price I could afford. Then I started buying what I WANTED mainly for FUN.

For example in the case of my first gun I picked what was of course my only gun based on "if I could only have one". I thought something small enough for CCW if needed, large enough for comfortable shooting, and quality to last. I narrowed down my choices to one of the German police pistols of the time, the Walther P5, SIG/Sauer P6, and HK P7. I could not afford any of those 20 years ago, so I "settled" for a S&W 3914.

Being limited to three handguns has not been a consideration in my selection process since gun number three. Even then I knew someday I would have four.

In the case of the differences between three from what I have now and three if I were really limited to three. I could by a few more guns for the price difference between a PPK and a PPK/L, same with the Hi-Power VS. P210. If I were limited to three that price difference would not be a factor.

The .22 revolver would go first. I bought it on a whim, and it's the only .22LR I own these days.

The 1911TC (SS Full Size) stays. The Officers ACP is my EDC, and it stays.

The PM9 vs the GLOCK17 gets tricky. I really only bought the glock becuase it shares magazines with my SUB2000. It is my least favorite pistol, but it makes a good set with the SUB2k.

The PM9 is so very concealable- it's my go-to for dressed-up carry, and shoots sweetly- it's the smallest, most shootable pistol I've owned, accurate and reliable.

I suppose I could get rid of both the 9MMs and get a GLOCK 19 or even a 26, and have something more concealable that will still be able to use Mags from the SUB2k (it's a G19 model) but I really dislike the grip on the 26, and the 19 is no smaller than the Officers Model...

tough call, but I think the GLOCK loses.

AFDavis11

November 25, 2012, 07:24 PM

Walther PPK/S for carry

1911 .45 acp, Kimber at the moment

625 revolver in .45

I'd have to part with SAA replica, in .45 colt. That's kind of tragic. But my 625 is my comp gun.

snakeman

November 25, 2012, 07:32 PM

I know they're not all auto's but here goes. 4" smith and wesson 357 concealable and hard hitting. Ruger single six it was my dad's and I've taken a whole bunch of rabbits and rattlers with it. Smith and wesson m&p 9mm. It's high cap, reliable, and accurate.

If it was three pistols I'd go with a Ruger Mark series .22, Beretta 92 or M9 and a 1911 of some sort. If it's three handguns we're talking about, then I'm in for a .22 revolver (like my trusty Dan Wesson 22), a .357 revolver (the 686 comes to mind) and a .45 ACP like a 1911 or Glock 30.

Posted from my car phone.

wlewisiii

November 25, 2012, 09:27 PM

Actually I'm going to change mine as well. Different situations & all that since my earlier post.

I would pick the exact three I currently own...the two that were my dad's: a) S&W 686 PowerPort 6" .357 magnum revolver; b) S&W 642 snubby .38 spl +p revolver; and my Beretta 92FS Inox 5" 9mm parabellum semiautomatic pistol; due to bad spending decisions I have had to intermittently sell firearms and what I have left is what I like the most

Grizzlyone

November 25, 2012, 10:50 PM

Right now I only have two:
XD40 Service
Glock 22

Same caliber(40S&W) one for the wife and one for me.

3rd is a toss up. I would like a MP shield, but also want a 1911... I have rifles for hunting, but if I had to have a pistol for hunting I guess my 3rd would be a large caliber wheel gun.

TreeDoc

November 26, 2012, 04:17 AM

638 for ease of carry, always carry gun
Single six, 22/22mag, versitle gun and cal. hunting, plinking, great woods gun.
G17 for home defense, good service pistol, light attachment